Why “Fraxel” (Fractional) Laser Treatments are Growing in Popularity

Fractional laser skin resurfacing is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the overall texture and appearance of the skin. This treatment – sometimes simply called “frax” – harnesses the power of laser technology, getting its name from the laser that is “fractionated” into thousands of individual microscopic beams.

According to a 2022 report by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), fractional laser treatments were the 4th most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure in the United States in 2021, with over 900,000 procedures performed.

In this article the fractional (“frax”) laser experts at SpaMedica in Grand Rapids explore the growing popularity of this skin rejuvenation and resurfacing treatment and explain what it can do for you.

Statistics on Fractional (“Fraxel”) Laser Treatments

A 2019 study published in the journal “JAMA Dermatology” found that the number of fractional laser treatments performed in the United States increased by 32% from 2015 to 2018.

And the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) also reported that the number of fractional laser treatments performed in the United States has increased by over 20% in the past 5 years – increasing by an astounding 17% from 2019 to 2020 alone.

This increase in the popularity of fractional laser treatments is likely because of the wide variety of skin concerns that “frax” can treat, including fine lines and wrinkles, age spots and sun damage, and acne scars. Fractional laser treatments are also becoming more widespread because they are very affordable, comfortable, and come with little to no downtime.

How Fractional (“Fraxel” / “Frax”) Laser Treatments Work

Instead of treating the entire skin surface, the fractionated laser beams create controlled, microscopic zones of thermal ‘injury’, leaving the surrounding tissue completely untouched. As a result, the surface of the skin remains intact – so there is less pain, less redness and peeling, and little to no downtime.

The process of creating microscopic “wounds” with the laser beam ‘grid’ stimulates the skin’s natural healing response, promoting collagen and elastin production. As the skin regenerates these essential proteins building blocks, it becomes firmer, smoother, and more even in tone and texture. Fractional laser skin rejuvenation is particularly effective in addressing concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation irregularities, and overall skin laxity.

Fraxel^® vs Fractional Laser Treatments

Many people use the terms “Fraxel^®” and “fractional laser” and “frax” interchangeably. But Fraxel^® is the brand name of a specific fractional laser treatment. (Just like Kleenex is a brand of facial tissue). There are also other brands of fractional laser treatments, including the Cynosure Icon 1540 laser that is offered at SpaMedica in Grand Rapids.

While the Cynosure Icon 1540 fractional laser and “Fraxel^®” (or “frax”) are essentially the same thing, there are some important differences. At SpaMedica in Grand Rapids we have chosen the Icon 1540 manufactured by Cynosure – the world leader in lasers – as the superior fractional skin resurfacing laser treatment.

Fraxel^® vs Icon 1540 Fractional Laser: Similarities

Both Fraxel and the Cynosure Icon 1540 use fractional laser technology to treat a variety of skin conditions with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin to expedite the body’s remodeling of collagen. Both Fraxel and the Cynosure Icon 1540 treat:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Age spots and sun damage
• Acne scars
• Stretchmarks
• Melasma
• Hyperpigmentation

Both the Cynosure Icon 1540 and Fraxel are non-ablative fractional lasers, which means that they do not damage the top layer of the skin. This results in less downtime and discomfort than ablative fractional laser treatments. Both treatments are also typically performed in a series of 3-5 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart. And both treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated – with only a small risk of very minor side effects, such as redness, swelling, and bruising.

Fraxel^® vs Icon 1540 Fractional Laser: Differences

There are a reasons we prefer the Cynosure Icon 1540 at SpaMedica in Grand Rapids over Fraxel brand fractional laser treatments. To begin with, the Fraxel® laser treatment has a slightly longer downtime than the Cynosure Icon 1540 fractional laser.

At SpaMedica in Grand Rapids we know that our patients lead extremely busy lives – and that a even a small difference in recovery time can make a big difference in their life!

Further, Cynosure Icon 1540 incorporates advanced contact cooling, enhancing patient comfort during the procedure. And, at SpaMedica on Grand Rapids, our patients’ comfort is always one of our topmost priorities!

Additionally, the Fraxel® laser treatment is typically more expensive than the Cynosure Icon 1540 fractional laser. In order to save our patients money in this challenging economy, we offer Icon 1540 fractional laser treatments – for the same results as the Fraxel® brand laser – but with a lower price tag.

Fractional “Frax” Laser Treatments | Grand Rapids

While both Fraxel® and Cynosure Icon 1540 share the benefits of fractional laser technology for skin resurfacing, we believe that Cynosure Icon 1540 is the most comfortable and affordable “frax” treatment – with the least amount of downtime.

If you are plagued by fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, melasma, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, stretchmarks, or other skin imperfections, schedule a Cynosure Icon 1540 fractional laser treatment at SpaMedica in Grand Rapids today – and enjoy the benefits of this affordable and comfortable – yet very powerful – solution for skin resurfacing and renewal.

Fractional Laser Treatments | Grand Rapids: (616) 888-3890